Name: Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp; 1 pound turkey sausage (sliced); 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 bell pepper (diced); 1 onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup green onions (chopped); 1 cup diced tomatoes (drained)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that hits all the right notes—spicy, savory, and packed with bold flavors—look no further than this Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Rice Skillet. Combining succulent shrimp, flavorful turkey sausage, and perfectly cooked rice, this one-pan wonder is as satisfying as it is simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe promises vibrant Cajun flair with minimal fuss.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Rice Skillet is a perfect blend of spices and textures that comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The shrimp cooks quickly and stays tender, while the turkey sausage adds a hearty, smoky depth without overpowering the dish. The rice soaks up all the delicious juices, creating a comforting, filling meal that warms the soul.

What makes this recipe truly stand out is the balance of fresh vegetables—bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes—that add a burst of color and sweetness to complement the bold Cajun seasoning. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. This skillet also pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread for soaking up every last bit of flavor.

If you love dishes like a classic Shrimp Boil, this skillet offers a similar vibrant taste profile in a more compact, approachable format.

The Essentials

Shrimp: 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp—quick-cooking and tender.
Turkey Sausage: 1 pound, sliced—adds a smoky, savory component without being too heavy.
Long-Grain White Rice: 1 cup—absorbs the flavorful broth perfectly.
Chicken Broth: 2 cups—provides a rich base for cooking the rice and infusing flavor.
Bell Pepper: 1, diced—a sweet crunch that balances the spice.
Onion: 1, diced—adds depth and aroma.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced—for that irresistible fragrance.
Cajun Seasoning: 1 tablespoon—brings the signature kick.
Paprika: 1 teaspoon—enhances color and smoky flavor.
Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon—for a subtle heat.
Salt: ½ teaspoon—balances all the flavors.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons—for sautéing and flavor.
Green Onions: 1 cup, chopped—adds freshness and a mild onion bite.
Diced Tomatoes: 1 cup, drained—introduces acidity and moisture.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A 12-inch pan is ideal for even cooking and enough space to combine all ingredients.
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For chopping vegetables and slicing sausage.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To get the seasoning and liquids just right.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring without scratching your pan.
Medium Bowl: To hold and prep shrimp if needed.

The Method for Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Rice Skillet

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Begin by peeling and deveining your shrimp if not already done. Slice the turkey sausage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the bell pepper and onion, mince the garlic, and chop the green onions. Drain the diced tomatoes thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy on the edges, about 5–6 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside, leaving the flavorful oil and drippings in the pan.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until aromatic.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Seasonings

Stir in the long-grain white rice, ensuring each grain is coated with the oils and vegetables. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt over the rice mixture. Stir well to combine, letting the spices toast slightly for about 1 minute.

Step 5: Pour in Broth and Tomatoes

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, then add the drained diced tomatoes. Give everything a gentle stir to distribute evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 6: Add Shrimp and Sausage

Once the rice is cooked, nestle the shrimp and browned sausage pieces into the skillet. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Step 7: Finish with Green Onions

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped green onions over the top. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the fresh flavor in. Serve hot and enjoy the vibrant flavors!

Better Choices & Swaps

Shrimp: Swap for peeled scallops or firm white fish if you prefer a different seafood texture.
Turkey Sausage: Chicken sausage or vegetarian sausage alternatives work well here.
Rice: Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, but increase the cooking time and broth accordingly.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is a great substitute for a lighter vegetarian-friendly base.
Cajun Seasoning: Customize your blend with smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs for a homemade touch.
Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes can be used in place of canned for a fresher taste.

Chef’s Rationale

The choice of turkey sausage in this recipe keeps the dish flavorful while avoiding an overly heavy texture. Shrimp cooks fast and pairs beautifully with the smoky, spicy notes from the Cajun seasoning. Cooking everything in a single skillet not only enhances the mingling of flavors but also cuts down on cleanup time—a win-win!

Using long-grain white rice ensures the grains stay separate and fluffy, absorbing the broth and spices just right. The addition of diced tomatoes adds a subtle acidity that brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the sausage and shrimp.

The inclusion of green onions at the end adds a burst of freshness and color, making the dish as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Save It for Later

This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Rice Skillet reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.

For best results, avoid freezing as the texture of the shrimp and sausage may change upon thawing. Instead, prepare the components separately if you’d like to freeze parts for later use.

Next Up in Your Queue

Shrimp Boil – For a hands-on seafood feast with classic Cajun flavors.
Sausage Dip – A creamy, spicy appetizer perfect for game day or gatherings.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta – If you love shrimp and rich sauces, this one’s a must-try.
One-Pot Chicken and Rice – Another comforting, all-in-one skillet meal.

Final Bite

This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Rice Skillet is a celebration of bold flavors and simple cooking. It’s a versatile, satisfying meal that never fails to impress with its spicy, smoky, and savory notes. With every forkful, you’ll get tender shrimp, hearty sausage, and perfectly seasoned rice—all cooked to perfection in one pan. Whether you’re a Cajun food fan or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, this skillet dish is a winner you’ll make again and again.

Give it a try tonight, and enjoy the delicious magic of Cajun cooking right at home!

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